CHF

Question 1

What is congestive heart failure (CHF)?

Answer 1

When the heart cannot pump effectively, causing fluid backup into lungs (left-sided) or body tissues (right-sided).

Question 2

What causes CHF?

Answer 2

Previous myocardial infarction, chronic hypertension, valve disorders, and cardiomyopathy.

Question 3

What are signs and symptoms of left-sided CHF?

Answer 3

Dyspnea especially when lying flat (orthopnea), crackles or rales on lung auscultation, and pink frothy sputum in severe cases.

Question 4

What are signs and symptoms of right-sided CHF?

Answer 4

Peripheral edema (legs and ankles), jugular vein distention (JVD), and ascites.

Question 5

What should EMTs do for CHF patients?

Answer 5

Position patient sitting upright, administer high-flow oxygen, use CPAP if allowed and patient is in respiratory distress, and transport rapidly to hospital.

Question 6

What is the oxygen dosage for CHF with respiratory distress?

Answer 6

High-flow oxygen via NRB at 10–15 L/min; consider CPAP if available and allowed by protocol.

Question 7

What is the oxygen dosage for CHF with respiratory distress?

Answer 7

High-flow oxygen via NRB at 10–15 L/min; consider CPAP if available and allowed by protocol.